STORY AND PHOTOS BY KAREN BOSSICK

It stands to reason that a big green ogre has a bad attitude.

After all, his parents sent him out into the world with a warning that everyone will hate him because—gulp—he’s plain ugly.

But Shrek finds that a cadre of fairy tale characters are able to look past his differences to enlist his help getting back their home after it was seized by the undersized Lord Farquaad. And Lord Farquaad, in turn, enlists Shrek’s help in rescuing Princess Fiona so he can marry her to enforce his kingliness.

“Shrek Jr., a tale of adventure and admonishment to accept others despite and, even because of, their differences takes the stage today and Friday at the Sun Valley Community School.

Ninety-six campers in Company B, a two-week summer camp hosted by St. Thomas Playhouse—are putting on the play at 2 p.m. today—Thursday, June 18—and at 10 a.m. Friday, June 19. Tickets are available at https://ci.ovationtix.com/35974/production/1280032.

The directors are Ida Belle Gorby and Eva Hatzenbuehler with musical direction by Joel Bejot.

The play features a princess, who is impish, fun, feisty and even a bit sassy despite being locked up in a tower all her life. It features a fast-talking, faster singing donkey who bellies up to Shrek. And it features the beloved characters of children’s fairy tales, including Pinocchio, The Three Bears, Three Little Pigs, the Big Bad Wolf, Little Red Riding Hood, the Gingerbread Man and the Ugly Duckling.

The original Broadway production, which features music by Jeanine Tesori and book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire, opened in December 2008 and run for 12 months before going on tour. It received 12 Drama Desk Awards and eight Tony Award nominations, including Best Musical.

Familiar and beloved songs include “Big Bright Beautiful World” and “I’m a Believer.” And, of course, there’s the famous belching scene between Princess Fiona and Shrek that is sure to tickle the funny bones of youngsters in the audience.